Happy Bridge cooperative

This chapter aims to describe and analyse the reorganisation processes of Happy Bridge cooperative (HBC), a Korean worker cooperative that transitioned from a corporation to a cooperative in 2013. Following this conversion, new organisational dynamics emerged as HBC adapted to cooperative principles and structures, revealing previously hidden internal disputes. The transformation involved not only changes in ownership and governance but also a fundamental restructuring of the organisation. Currently, HBC is undergoing reorganisation through two worker cooperative groups. This case highlights the significance of the global cooperative movement, particularly the influence of Spain’s Mondragon cooperatives. Moreover, HBC’s impact on Korea’s social economy is notable due to its scale and collaborative practices, especially when compared to other cooperatives established under the Framework Act on Cooperatives of 2012.